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Siamese: What a Unique Breed! Your is special! She senses your moods, is curious about your day, and has purred her way into your heart. Chances are that you chose her because you like Siamese and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle, like:

 May to communicate with you  Energetic and playful  A good companion and  Good with children and other  Has a short, easy-to-care-for coat  Highly intelligent and able to learn tricks

However, no cat is perfect! You may have also noticed these characteristics:

 Very talkative, has an opinion about everything  May want to constantly be involved in your activities  People-oriented and should not be left alone for long periods of time

Is it all worth it? Of course! She's full of personality, and you love her for it! She is passionate about people and will involve herself in everything you are doing.

The Siamese was exported from Siam, now Thailand, in the late 1800’s. They have striking blue eyes and an attractive two-toned coat. Siamese like to talk in their characteristic loud and low pitched voice. They are one of the most extroverted and social cats in the world, enjoying the company of people of all ages. They also get along well with other cats and dogs. Siamese are most intelligent, easily learning tricks such has fetching, walking on a leash and opening cabinets.

PET MEDICAL CENTER

501 E. FM 2410 ● Harker Heights, Texas 76548 (254) 690-6769 www.pet-medcenter.com

General Health Information for your Siamese Weight Management is a major disease that contributes to a surprisingly large number of illnesses and deaths in cats. This revelation is more well-known and well-understood today than in the last few decades, but too many owners are still ignoring the dangers of extra weight on their pets. Excess weight is one of the most influential factors in the development of arthritis, , and other life-threatening diseases. Everyone knows—many firsthand from personal experience— how even shedding just a few pounds can result in improved mobility and increased overall motivation to be active. And the same is true for your pet. Research suggests that carrying excess weight may shorten a pet’s life by as much as two years, and can cause the onset of arthritis two years sooner. Diabetes, an inherited disease, has a Your Siamese's Health much higher chance of developing in overweight pets, and may We know that because you care so much about your cat, you never become a problem for a healthy-weight cat. The more want to take great care of her. That is why we have obese a cat becomes, the more likely it will become diabetic. summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver, is another potentially fatal over the life of your Siamese. By knowing about the health disease in overweight pets; hepatic lipidosis can develop in as concerns common among Siamese, we can help you tailor an few as 48 hours when an overweight cat stops eating for any individual preventive health plan and hopefully prevent some reason. predictable risks in your pet. So how can we help our pets stay trim? Understanding your Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they cat's dietary habits is key. The average cat prefers to eat about are related to your pet’s breed. The conditions we will describe 10-15 times a day, just a few nibbles at a time. This method, here have a significant rate of incidence or a strong impact free-feeding, works well for most cats, but boredom may upon this breed particularly, according to a general consensus increase the number of trips your cat makes to the food bowl. among feline genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners. By keeping your cat playfully active and engaged, you'll help This does not mean your cat will have these problems, only that your pet stay healthy and have some fun at the same time! A she may be more at risk than other cats. We will describe the string tied to a stick with something crinkly or fuzzy on the most common issues seen in Siamese to give you an idea of other end of the string, and a little imagination—you and your what may come up in her future. Of course, we can’t cover cat will both be entertained. Food puzzles, like kibbles put in a every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice paper bag or under an overturned basket or box, may help to any unusual signs or symptoms. motivate cats with more food-based interests to romp and tumble. This guide contains general health information important to all For really tough cases of overeating, you will have to take a felines as well as information on genetic predispositions for firm stance, and regulate your cat’s food intake. Instead of Siamese. The information here can help you and your pet’s filling your cat’s bowl to the top, follow the feeding guide on healthcare team plan for your pet’s unique medical needs the food package and be sure to feed a high-quality adult cat together. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a diet as recommended by your vet. Replace your cat's habits of description of what you can do at home to keep your Siamese eating when bored with extra playtime and affection. Cats looking and feeling her best. We hope this information will typically adjust their desires for personal interaction by the help you know what to watch for, and we will all feel better amount of affection offered to them, so in other words, knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your friend. ignoring your cat means your cat will ignore you. By the same token, loving on and playing with your cat a lot will cause your cat to desire that time with you. A more active cat means a healthier, happier pet—and owner! Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common chronic problems in pets who don’t have their teeth brushed regularly. Unfortunately, most cats don’t take very good care of their own teeth, and this probably includes your Siamese. Without extra

help and care from you, your cat is likely to develop potentially a thorough dental exam to look for stomatitis, these procedures serious dental problems. Dental disease starts with food can be conveniently performed at the same time as the spay or residue, which hardens into tartar that builds up on the visible neuter to minimize the stress on your cat. Routine blood testing parts of the teeth, and eventually leads to infection of the gums prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions and tooth roots. Protecting your cat against dental disease from against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical the start by removing food residue regularly may help prevent risk. It sounds like a lot to keep in mind, but don’t worry - we’ll or delay the need for advanced treatment of dental disease. This discuss all the specific problems we will look for with you treatment can be stressful for your cat and expensive for you, when the time arrives. so preventive care is beneficial all around. In severe cases of chronic dental infection, your pet may even lose teeth or sustain damage to internal organs. And, if nothing else, your Genetic Predispositions for will be a more pleasant companion not knocking everyone Amyloidosis over with stinky cat breath! We’ll show you how to keep your An amyloid is a type of compound that can cause cat's pearly whites clean at home, and help you schedule disease by abnormally collecting inside of tissues and organs. It regular routine dental exams. is the same protein that builds up in the brains of human Vaccine-Preventable Infections Alzheimer’s patients. In cats, amyloids are more likely to Like all cats, Siamese are susceptible to bacterial and viral accumulate in the abdominal organs, especially the kidneys, infections such as panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, liver, and pancreas. This buildup of protein clogs the organ and and , which are preventable through vaccination. The risk causes organ failure. Signs of organ failure may appear on of your cat contracting these diseases is high, so the blood or tests, but a tissue biopsy is the only way to corresponding vaccines are called “core” vaccines, which are specifically diagnose amyloidosis as the cause of the failure. highly recommended for all cats. In addition, vaccines are There is no effective treatment for amyloidosis as a disease, but available to offer protection from other dangerous diseases like we can use diet and to support the function of (FeLV). In making vaccination affected organs. recommendations for your cat, we will consider the prevalence Megaesophagus of these diseases in our area, your cat’s age, and any other risk The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth into factors specific to her lifestyle. the by a series of contractions after swallowing. If the Parasites esophagus doesn't contract properly to move food down, All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Siamese's body, however, it can become stretched out to “mega” size, so that inside and out. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can food remains in the esophagus instead of going down into the infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, stomach. Siamese affected by megaesophagus may throw up heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a tube-shaped portions of undigested food. If your cat has any number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on unusual eating behaviors or consistently vomits after eating, be contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. sure to let us know. X-rays can help us determine if your pet Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family has this condition, and special feeding postures, dietary member and are a serious concern for everyone. For your feline modifications, and sometimes can be prescribed to friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even help manage the problem. Unfortunately, cats with death, so it’s important that we test for them on a regular basis. megaesophagus commonly inhale bits of food because of the Many types of parasites can be detected with a fecal exam, so esophagus's nearness to the windpipe and can consequently it’s a good idea to bring a fresh stool sample (in a stink-proof develop severe pneumonia, so it's important to diagnose container, please) with your pet for her twice-a-year wellness megaesophagus and begin proper treatment early. exams. We’ll also recommend preventive medication as Multiple Cancers necessary to keep her healthy. Cancer is a leading cause of death among cats in their golden Spay or Neuter years. Your Siamese is even more prone to certain kinds of One of the best things you can do for your Siamese is to have cancer and to some kinds from a younger age. Many cancers her spayed (neutered for males). In females, this procedure can be cured by surgical removal of any masses and some types includes surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus; are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection of every type in males, the testicles are surgically removed. Spaying or of cancer is critical, so we’ll do periodic blood tests and look your pet decreases the likelihood of certain types of for lumps and bumps on your pet at each exam. cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming  Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that pregnant or fathering unwanted litters. Both sexes usually afflicts Siamese more than other breeds. This disease become less territorial and less likely to roam, and neutering causes the body to form abnormal lymphocytes, which are particularly decreases the occurrence of urine spraying and a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells are marking behaviors in males. Performing this surgery also gives found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, address some of the diseases your cat is likely to develop. For and chemotherapy in cats has shown an excellent success example, if your pet needs hip X-rays to check for dysplasia or rate for recovery. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the hyperesthesia, medications can sometimes help alleviate the few types of cancer that can often be detected with a blood negative sensations, but close monitoring is constantly required test, so we recommend a complete blood count twice to prevent the cat from self-endangerment. yearly for your adult cat. Also watch for swollen glands Convergent Strabismus and Nystagmus (ask us, and we’ll show you where to look), weight loss, or Convergent strabismus is the medical term for crossed eyes. labored breathing, and be sure to call us if you notice any While this may be considered a birth defect in most breeds, in unusual symptoms in your pet. the Siamese, it's considered normal. In some cases, you may  Siamese are also at higher risk for thymoma, which is a even notice your cat's eyes flicking from side to side, a specific type of lymphoma that occurs inside the chest. phenomenon called nystagmus. Neurologic studies have shown Affected cats are usually young (often less than two years that these cats typically do not see double; their brains sort out old), and they typically respond well to chemotherapy, all the extra information so that they see a unified image, just with some cats gaining life-long remission. Although the like cats without nystagmus. In any case, neither strabismus nor mode of inheritance has not been confirmed, it is suspected nystagmus is dangerous, and no treatment is needed. Many cat to be autosomal recessive in nature, meaning that some owners even find these traits endearing! normal cats may still carry the bad gene. Responsible breeders recommend that cats who are closely related to a Progressive Retinal Atrophy known affected cat should not be used for breeding. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease in  Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin some Siamese bloodlines in which the eyes are genetically cancer, and the sooner they are surgically removed the programmed to go blind over time. PRA may cause varying better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look similar degrees of vision loss, but in most cases results in total to many other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, so it's hard blindness with no effective treatment or cure. Because this to know when to be concerned. Of all the skin problems disease is caused by a recessive gene, normal cats can be found commonly in your Siamese, some may be harmful carriers, and a with normal parents may still develop and some not, but any skin lump, bump, or irritation on PRA. Most affected cats begin to show signs of the disease at your cat is cause enough for concern. All abnormalities around one-and-a-half to two years of age. Night blindness should be checked out by the vet, and any suspicious or comes first, progressing to total blindness over a period of questionable growths should be surgically removed and about two to four years. In some breeds, the disease starts even tested as soon as possible. Many cancers can be cured by earlier at about two to three weeks of age, resulting in full surgically removing their growths, so early evaluation of blindness by about 16 weeks. A genetic test is available to test all skin abnormalities is critical. parents as carriers before breeding; responsible breeders  Cancer is a common problem in middle-aged and older recommend that affected cats and their close relatives should cats, and while there are many different types of cancer, not be used for breeding. Siamese may be more susceptible to adenocarcinoma, a type of intestinal cancer, than other breeds. Adenocarcinoma tumors usually grow like a donut or lump wrapped around the intestines, which can eventually grow big enough to shut off the flow of intestinal contents. Affected cats may have sudden or severe , diarrhea, or blood in the stool. We may be able to detect the tumor during a routine physical examination, but an ultrasound of the abdomen is usually recommended to specifically diagnose adenocarcinoma and to help plan for the effective surgical removal of the tumor. Like with all types of cancer, early detection improves prognosis, so we recommend a complete physical exam twice a year. Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome While anesthesia means a lack of sensation or feeling, hyperesthesia means feeling too much. Cats with hyperesthesia have increased sensitivity to touch and other stimulation of the skin and nerves. You may notice your cat’s skin rippling along the back when it experiences even light touches or other triggers to the condition. Affected cats appear to be uncomfortable with the sensation and may cry, try to run away, or self-mutilate trying to lick or chew the sensation away. Other diseases of the skin or nervous system may cause similar signs, so we'll run tests to determine the specific problem. If chewing is the only symptom you are noticing, treatment may be as simple as monthly flea prevention! For cats with

Taking Care of Your Siamese at Home Much of what you can do at home to keep your cat happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual (see “What to Watch For” below). Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for your pet. During your cat's exams, we’ll perform her necessary “check-ups” and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Siamese. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing her up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs.

Feline Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Asthma, which causes and narrowing of the Build your pet’s routine care into your schedule to help your small airways of the lungs, is fairly common in cats. Certain cat Siamese live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her breeds, including your Siamese, are especially at risk. Asthma lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper is a life-threatening condition that can require emergency diet and exercise routine for your pet. treatment. Cats with asthma often have a wheezing ; some owners may describe it as a “hairball cough,” but really  Supervise your pet as you would a young child. Keep when cats have a hairball, they typically don't cough, they doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms vomit. Coughing is much more likely to be a serious problem as necessary. This will help keep her out of trouble, off of in a cat than in a human or a dog, for example, and any cough inappropriate surfaces for jumping, and away from objects that lasts longer than a day or recurs over time should be she shouldn’t put in her mouth. checked out. Cats with asthma can be treated with inhalers as  She has a low maintenance short coat. Brush as needed, at well as oral medications that help open the airways and reduce least weekly for a healthy shine. inflammation. Prompt treatment is needed for wheezing,  Siamese have generally good teeth, and you can keep them gasping, coughing or any sign of respiratory distress in your perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! cat.  Check her ears weekly for wax, debris, or signs of Wool Sucking infection and clean when necessary. Don’t worry—we’ll Wool sucking is a term used for a cat's inclination to suckle on show you how! soft materials, even well after kittenhood. Siamese cats have a  She needs daily play sessions that stimulate her natural tendency to suck on blankets, soft fabrics, or even their tails! desire to hunt and explore. Keep her mind and body active This behavior seems to be soothing, like when a baby sucks its or she may develop behavior issues. thumb. In most cases, wool sucking isn’t dangerous and does  Cats are meticulously clean and demand a clean litter box. not require treatment. Be sure to provide at least one box for each cat and scoop waste daily. Separation Anxiety Syndrome  It is important that your cat drinks adequate amounts of While the vast majority of felines prefer a solitary lifestyle, water. If she won’t drink water from her bowl try adding some Siamese can form unhealthy and excessive attachments to ice cubes or a flowing fountain. their owners. They can become so attached that when their  Feed a high-quality feline diet appropriate for her age. human counterparts aren't around, they quickly become  Exercise your cat regularly by engaging her with high- anxious or bored, leading to destructive behaviors such as activity toys. paper shredding, vocalization, or litter box amnesia. Some cats may even exhibit aggressive behaviors when they know their owners are about to leave. To avoid the vices of boredom, make sure your cat has plenty of special toys or food puzzles to keep his mind and body active while he is left alone. A consistent daily routine and a stable home environment can also help prevent the troubles of separation anxiety. In severe cases, anti-anxiety medication may also be used to help keep your worried friend relaxed.

What to Watch For An abnormal symptom in your pet could be just a minor or Partners in Health Care temporary issue, but it could also be the sign of serious illness DNA testing is a rapidly advancing field with new tests or disease. Knowing when to seek veterinary help, and how constantly emerging to help in the early diagnosis of inherited urgently, is essential to taking care of your cat. Many diseases disease even before your cat shows symptoms. For the most can cause cats to have a characteristic combination of up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your available for your pal, visit www.Genesis4Pets.com. Siamese needs help. Your Siamese counts on you to take good care of her, and we Office calls look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a Give us a call for an appointment if you notice any of these long and healthy life. Our goal is to provide you both with the types of symptoms: best health care possible: health care that's based on your pet’s  Change in appetite or water consumption breed, lifestyle, and age. Please contact us when you have  Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth questions or concerns:  Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking), hair loss, or areas of shortened fur Pet Medical Center  Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping 254-690-6769  Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes  Asthmatic wheezing  For great videos of coughing cats with asthma visit References: Bell JS, Cavanagh KE, Tilley LP, Smith FW. Veterinary medical guide to dog www.fritzthebrave.com and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; 2012. Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. 2nd Edition. Wiley-Blackwell; 2010. Emergencies Feline Advisory Bureau. Inherited disorders in cats - confirmed and suspected Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these signs: [Internet]. [cited 2013 May 1]. Available from: http://www.fabcats.org/breeders/inherited_disorders/siamese.php  Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear Hamza J, Hannon M, et al. Breed Profile [Internet]. The Cat Fanciers' discharge Association, Inc. [cited 2013 May 1]. Available from:  Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality http://www.cfainc.org/Breeds/BreedsSthruT/Siamese.aspx Addie DD. Genetic and Hereditary Conditions of Pedigree (Purebred) and involving the eyes Domestic Cats [Internet]. [cited 2013 May 1]. Available from: http://www.dr-  Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine addie.com/breeds.htm#siamese  Episodes of agitation with rippling skin, crying, chewing at the skin

Kitten to Adolescent Health Care Recommendations

Siamese-Specific Problems

Age Services We’ll Provide We’re Looking For (√) 6–9 weeks Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus  Dental alignment, heart murmur, hernia

Healthy Eye disease screen Convergent strabismus and Nystagmus Internal organ health evaluation Megaesophagus Parasite detection/prevention Vaccinations

in People Years People in Discuss socialization and at-home kitten care

27 10–13 Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus Siamese  weeks Eye disease screen Convergent strabismus and Nystagmus Internal organ health evaluation Megaesophagus Parasite detection/prevention Vaccinations Discuss grooming basics and wool sucking 14–16 Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus  weeks Eye disease screen Convergent strabismus and Nystagmus Internal organ health evaluation Megaesophagus Parasite prevention Vaccinations

to Adolescent: Infant to to Infant Adolescent: to Schedule spay/neuter surgery

Discuss obedience 4–6 months Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus

Kitten  Eye disease screen Convergent strabismus and Nystagmus Internal organ health evaluation Megaesophagus

How We’ll Keep Your

Cancer screen Mast cell tumor Pre-surgical diagnostics Spay/neuter surgery Discuss microchipping, declaw options, and separation anxiety 6 months Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus  through 2 Eye disease screen Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) years Internal organ health evaluation Asthma Endocrine screening Amyloidosis Cancer screen Mast cell tumor and Lymphoma

Parasite prevention Vaccinations Discuss lifetime genetic considerations All major diseases important in the breed with diagnostic plan

Adult to Golden Years Health Care Recommendations

Siamese-Specific Problems (√) Age Services We’ll Provide We’re Looking For 3 years Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus

in in  through Eye disease screen Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

6 years Internal organ health evaluation Asthma Endocrine screening Amyloidosis Neurological assessment Feline hyperesthesia syndrome Cancer screen Mast cell tumor and Lymphoma Parasite prevention Vaccinations Discuss behavior and nutrition

Adult: 28 to 44 to 28 Adult: Years People 7 years Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus

in in  through Eye disease screen Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

10 years Internal organ health evaluation Asthma Endocrine screening Amyloidosis Neurological assessment Feline hyperesthesia syndrome

45 to 54 to 45

: Cancer screen Mast cell tumor and Lymphoma Parasite prevention Vaccinations Discuss mental and physical well-being

Senior Years People 11 years Head-to-tail physical examination Breed-specific physical abnormalities plus

+  and older Eye disease screen Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

Internal organ health evaluation Asthma Endocrine screening Amyloidosis Neurological assessment Feline hyperesthesia syndrome How We’ll Keep Your Siamese Healthy Cancer screen Mast cell tumor, Lymphoma, Thymoma, and Small intestinal adenocarcinoma Parasite prevention Vaccinations Discuss mental and physical well-being

Golden Years: 55 Years: Golden Years People in

Note: We recommend twice-a-year examinations so that we may diagnose problems sooner. This approach also gives you the budget-friendly option of spreading preventive testing over two visits rather than one.